Aerosol provision device

ABSTRACT

An aerosol provision device includes a housing delimiting a first opening at a first end of the housing through which to receive aerosol generating material and delimiting a second opening at a second end of the housing. A chamber is positioned between the second opening and the first opening, wherein at least part of the chamber is configured to receive the aerosol generating material. At least one heater is arranged within the housing and configured to heat aerosol generating material received within the chamber thereby to generate an aerosol. An absorbent material for absorbing liquid is provided.

PRIORITY CLAIM

The present application is a National Phase entry of PCT Application No.PCT/EP2020/065737, filed Jun. 5, 2020, which claims priority from CN PCTPatent Application No. PCT/CN2019/090590, filed Jun. 10, 2019, each ofwhich is hereby fully incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to an aerosol provision device and anabsorbent member for an aerosol provision device.

BACKGROUND

Smoking articles such as cigarettes, cigars and the like burn tobaccoduring use to create tobacco smoke. Attempts have been made to providealternatives to these articles that burn tobacco by creating productsthat release compounds without burning. Examples of such products areheating devices which release compounds by heating, but not burning, thematerial. The material may be for example tobacco or other non-tobaccoproducts, which may or may not contain nicotine.

SUMMARY

According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is providedan aerosol provision device, comprising: a housing delimiting a firstopening at a first end of the housing, through which to receive aerosolgenerating material, and delimiting a second opening at a second end ofthe housing; a chamber positioned between the second opening and thefirst opening, wherein at least part of the chamber is configured toreceive the aerosol generating material; at least one heater arrangedwithin the housing and configured to heat aerosol generating materialreceived within the chamber thereby to generate an aerosol; and anabsorbent material for absorbing liquid; wherein, in use, the aerosol isdrawn along a flow path through the chamber towards the first openingand the absorbent material is at least partially positioned upstream ofthe part of the chamber configured to receive the aerosol generatingmaterial.

According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there isprovided an absorbent member for absorbing liquid in an aerosolprovision device, the absorbent member comprising an absorbent materialsupported by a substrate, wherein the absorbent member is configured tobe at least partially received in a chamber of the aerosol provisiondevice adjacent aerosol generating material.

According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is providedan aerosol provision device, comprising: a housing delimiting a firstopening at a first end of the housing, through which to receive aerosolgenerating material, and delimiting a second opening at a second end ofthe housing; a chamber positioned between the second opening and thefirst opening, wherein at least part of the chamber is configured toreceive aerosol generating material; at least one heater arranged withinthe housing, configured to heat the aerosol generating material receivedwithin the chamber thereby to generate an aerosol; and a hydrophobicmaterial arranged within the housing to substantially prevent liquidfrom leaking out of the aerosol provision device; wherein, in use, theaerosol is drawn through the chamber towards the first opening.

According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, there isprovided an aerosol provision device, comprising: a housing delimiting afirst opening at a first end of the housing, through which to receiveaerosol generating material, and delimiting a second opening at a secondend of the housing; a chamber positioned between the second opening andthe first opening, wherein at least part of the chamber is configured toreceive the aerosol generating material; at least one heater arrangedwithin the housing and configured to heat aerosol generating materialreceived within the chamber thereby to generate an aerosol; and aremovable cover configured to receive liquid from the chamber, theremovable cover being attachable to the aerosol provision device in aposition in which the second opening is blocked by the cover.

Further features and advantages of the disclosure will become apparentfrom the following description of various embodiments of the disclosure,given by way of example only, which is made with reference to theaccompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a front view of an example of an aerosol provision device.

FIG. 2 shows a front view of the aerosol provision device of FIG. 1 withan outer cover removed.

FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the aerosol provision device ofFIG. 1.

FIG. 4 shows an exploded view of the aerosol provision device of FIG. 2.

FIG. 5A shows a cross-sectional view of a heating assembly within anaerosol provision device.

FIG. 5B shows a close-up view of a portion of the heating assembly ofFIG. 5A.

FIG. 6A shows a perspective view of the bottom end of the aerosolprovision device with a door providing access to a second opening.

FIG. 6B shows a perspective view of the bottom end of the aerosolprovision device with the door omitted.

FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of the aerosol provision device withcertain components of the heating assembly omitted.

FIG. 8 shows a cross-sectional view of a first absorbent member arrangedwithin a chamber of the aerosol provision device.

FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of the absorbent member of FIG. 8.

FIG. 10 shows a cross-sectional view of a second absorbent memberarranged within a recess of a door of the aerosol provision device.

FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of the absorbent member of FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of a third absorbent member.

FIG. 13 shows a perspective view of a fourth absorbent member.

FIG. 14 shows a perspective view of a hydrophobic layer according to anexample.

FIG. 15 is a diagrammatic representation of a hydrophobic layer arrangedwithin a recess of a closed door of the aerosol provision device.

FIG. 16 is a diagrammatic representation of a hydrophobic layer arrangedwithin a recess of an open door of the aerosol provision device.

FIG. 17 shows a perspective view of an absorbent member arranged on ahydrophobic layer according to an example.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As used herein, the term “aerosol generating material” includesmaterials that provide volatilized components upon heating, typically inthe form of an aerosol. Aerosol generating material includes anytobacco-containing material and may, for example, include one or more oftobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco ortobacco substitutes. Aerosol generating material also may include other,non-tobacco, products, which, depending on the product, may or may notcontain nicotine. Aerosol generating material may for example be in theform of a solid, a liquid, a gel, a wax or the like. Aerosol generatingmaterial may for example also be a combination or a blend of materials.Aerosol generating material may also be known as “smokable material”.

Apparatus is known that heats aerosol generating material to volatilizeat least one component of the aerosol generating material, typically toform an aerosol which can be inhaled, without burning or combusting theaerosol generating material. Such apparatus is sometimes described as an“aerosol generating device”, an “aerosol provision device”, a“heat-not-burn device”, a “tobacco heating product device” or a “tobaccoheating device” or similar. Similarly, there are also so-callede-cigarette devices, which typically vaporize an aerosol generatingmaterial in the form of a liquid, which may or may not contain nicotine.The aerosol generating material may be in the form of or be provided aspart of a rod, cartridge or cassette or the like which can be insertedinto the apparatus. A heater for heating and volatilizing the aerosolgenerating material may be provided as a “permanent” part of theapparatus.

An aerosol provision device can receive an article comprising aerosolgenerating material for heating. An “article” in this context is acomponent that includes or contains in use the aerosol generatingmaterial, which is heated to volatilize the aerosol generating material,and optionally other components in use. A user may insert the articleinto the aerosol provision device before it is heated to produce anaerosol, which the user subsequently inhales. The article may be, forexample, of a predetermined or specific size that is configured to beplaced within a heating chamber of the device which is sized to receivethe article.

Articles, for instance those in the shape of rods, are often namedaccording to the product length: “regular” (typically in the range 68-75mm, e.g. from about 68 mm to about 72 mm), “short” or “mini” (68 mm orless), “king size” (typically in the range 75-91 mm, e.g. from about 79mm to about 88 mm), “long” or “super-king” (typically in the range91-105 mm, e.g. from about 94 mm to about 101 mm) and “ultra-long”(typically in the range from about 110 mm to about 121 mm).

They are also named according to the product circumference: “regular”(about 23-25 mm), “wide” (greater than 25 mm), “slim” (about 22-23 mm),“demi-slim” (about 19-22 mm), “super-slim” (about 16-19 mm), and“micro-slim” (less than about 16 mm).

Accordingly, an article in a king-size, super-slim format will, forexample, have a length of about 83 mm and a circumference of about 17mm.

Each format may be produced with mouthpieces of different lengths. Themouthpiece length will typically be from about 10 mm to 50 mm. A tippingpaper connects the mouthpiece to the aerosol generating material andwill usually have a greater length than the mouthpiece, for example from3 to 10 mm longer, such that the tipping paper covers the mouthpiece andoverlaps the aerosol generating material, for instance in the form of arod of substrate material, to connect the mouthpiece to the rod.

Articles and their aerosol generating materials and mouthpiecesdescribed herein can be made in, but are not limited to, any of theabove formats.

A first aspect of the present disclosure defines an aerosol provisiondevice comprising an absorbent material for absorbing liquid, such asliquid residue. It has been found that when an article comprisingaerosol generating material is heated within a chamber of the device,aerosol can cool and condense inside the device. For example, aerosolcan condense on inner surfaces of the chamber. This condensate or liquidcan run down the inside of the chamber and collect at the bottom of thedevice. In some examples, the bottom of the device comprises a door orcover, also known as a cleanout door, which allows a user to access thechamber for cleaning. The liquid may leak out of the cover when it isopened. In other examples, the cover (or the bottom of the device) maycomprise one or more air inlets. The liquid may leak out of the airinlets during use or when the device is being stored. Furthermore, theliquid may leak out of air gaps around the outside of the cover. It isdesirable to reduce the leakage of any liquid out of the device.

In some examples, leakage is reduced by absorbing liquid before it canleak out of the device. Accordingly, one or more absorbing/absorbentmembers/materials may be arranged within the device to absorb any liquidthat forms or gathers within the chamber. Once absorbed by the absorbentmaterial, the liquid may then evaporate during storage periods or besubstantially retained within the absorbent material. The absorbentmaterial may be removable from the device, so that it can be cleaned andreplaced within the device; emptied and replaced within the device;emptied, cleaned and replaced within the device; or disposed of andreplaced with a new absorbent material.

An example aerosol provision device comprises a housing, where thehousing/device delimits a first opening at a first end through which toreceive aerosol generating material. The housing/device further delimitsa second opening at a second end of the housing/device. The secondopening may allow a user to access the device for cleaning. The housingmay be at least partially defined by an outer cover and one or more endmembers, for example. The first opening may be arranged at a mouth endof the device. The second opening may be arranged at a distal end of thedevice. The second end may be opposed from the first end.

A chamber may be positioned between the second opening and the firstopening. The chamber may be defined by one or more components. Forexample, the chamber may be at least partially defined by a susceptor orother heating component. The chamber may additionally or alternativelybe at least partially defined by a hollow member, which may also beknown as a cleanout tube or a support. The hollow member may support thesusceptor. At least part of the chamber is configured to receive theaerosol generating material. For example, the susceptor may receive theaerosol generating material. The chamber may define a flow path orthrough hole between the first and second openings.

As mentioned, the device comprises an absorbent material for absorbingliquid. The absorbent material can be arranged closer to the secondopening than it is to the first opening and/or at least partiallypositioned upstream in the flow path of the part of the chamberconfigured to receive the aerosol generating material. The aerosol isgenerated by heating the aerosol generating material and is drawnthrough the chamber towards the first opening as a user inhales on thedevice. Accordingly, the absorbent material is arranged upstream of theaerosol flow path. The absorbent material is therefore arranged close tothe distal end of the device and absorbs liquid which flows towards thedistal end of the device. Phrased differently, the chamber may define afirst section to receive the aerosol generating material. The firstsection may be a heating section, for example. The absorbent materialmay be arranged in the device between the first section and the secondopening or the cover. The distal end of the device may be the bottom endof the device which is furthest from a user's mouth in use, for example.Liquid may flow towards the distal end of the device due to gravity.Condensation may form towards the distal end of the device because thisregion is cooler than the mouth end of the device. When the device is inuse (i.e. during a heating session), the aerosol is drawn through thechamber towards the first opening.

The device comprises at least one heater arranged within the housing,where the heater is configured to heat aerosol generating materialreceived within the housing/chamber to generate an aerosol. The heatermay be known as a heater/heating assembly. The heater may be aninductive heater or a resistive heater. In some examples, the heater maycomprise one or more inductor coils. Each inductor coil may be arrangedto generate a varying magnetic field, which penetrates a susceptor. Aswill be discussed in more detail herein, a susceptor is an electricallyconducting object, which is heatable by penetration with a varyingmagnetic field. An article comprising aerosol generating material can bereceived within the susceptor, or be arranged near to, or in contactwith the susceptor. Once heated, the susceptor transfers heat to theaerosol generating material, which releases aerosol. The heater maycomprise the susceptor.

The device may comprise a cover or door that is movable between a firstposition in which the second opening is blocked, covered or closed bythe cover, and a second position in which the second opening is open,not covered or not blocked). The second opening is “open” as long asaccess to the second opening is possible, for example the second openingmay still be partially covered by the cover. In some examples in thesecond position access to the opening is substantially unobstructed bythe cover. A user may open the cover to clean the device or to replacethe absorbent material.

The chamber may have a first section to receive the aerosol generatingmaterial and a second section to receive the absorbent material. Thus,the absorbent material may be arranged at least partially within thechamber.

The cover may comprise a recess, and the absorbent material may bearranged at least partially in the recess. The recess may also stopliquid from leaking out of the device even if the absorbent material issaturated. The recess within the cover can allow the absorbent materialto be more easily removed and inspected by a user. For example, thecover can be opened, and a user can check whether the absorbent materialneeds to be cleaned or replaced without needing to touch the absorbentmaterial or remove it from the chamber. In addition, by arranging theabsorbent material in the cover, the liquid is collected further awayfrom the heater, which may keep the inside of the device/chamber cleanerand provide more opportunity for any liquid to evaporate before itreaches the absorbent material.

In some examples, the cover is detachable from the device. This canallow the user to more easily dispose of the absorbent material, and/orto pour any excess liquid out of the recess. The cover may be fullydetachable from the device.

In one example, the cover delimits one or more apertures for air to passthrough, and the apertures may be arranged outside of the recessedportion of the cover. Thus, even when the absorbent material issaturated, the liquid is substantially prevented from leaking out of thecover. The one or more apertures may be known as air inlets.

In use, the absorbent material may be at least partially positionedbetween the aerosol generating material and the cover. That is, theabsorbent material and aerosol generating material may be arrangedwithin the device at the same time. For example, the aerosol generatingmaterial may be arranged within a first section of the chamber and theabsorbent material may be arranged in a second section of the chamber,or may be arranged in the recess of the cover. This allows the liquid tobe absorbed when the device is being used (i.e. during a heatingsession).

The absorbent material may comprise foam, such as Polyurethane foam andHigh Density Polyurethane foam, sponge, paper or cellulose acetate.These materials are lightweight, absorbent and relatively inexpensive tomanufacture.

The absorbent material may comprise a filamentary tow material, alsoreferred to as fibrous material, which can comprise cellulose acetatefiber tow. The filamentary tow can also be formed using other materialsused to form fibers, such as polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), polylactic acid(PLA), polycaprolactone (PCL), poly(1-4 butanediol succinate) (PBS),poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate)(PBAT), starch based materials,cotton, aliphatic polyester materials and polysaccharide polymers or acombination thereof. The filamentary tow may be plasticized with asuitable plasticizer for the tow, such as triacetin where the materialis cellulose acetate tow, or the tow may be non-plasticized. Unlessotherwise described, the tow can have any suitable specification, suchas fibers having a ‘Y’ shaped or other cross section such as ‘X’ shaped,filamentary denier values between 2 and 20 denier per filament, forexample between 4 and 14 denier per filament and total denier values of5,000 to 50,000, for example between 10,000 and 40,000.

The absorbent material may have an absorption capacity of at least 7grams of water per gram of absorbent material. In other example theabsorption capacity may be at least 10 grams per gram or at least 15grams per gram. Absorption capacity measures the weight of liquid whichcan be held by the material without leakage. Higher capacities arepreferred to ensure that the absorbent material can retain a sufficientvolume of liquid that might be encountered in use without leaking. Forexample, a higher absorption capacity allows more use of the aerosolprovision device before the absorbent material needs to be emptied orreplaced. In some examples, a hydrophilic polyurethane foam which iscommercially available from Freudenberg Performance Materials,headquartered in Weinheim, Germany under the trade name Freudenberg 1012is used. This has an absorption capacity of 20 grams per gram.

Absorption capacity in this case is measured by pouring water on a testpiece of absorbent material, such as foam piece with a flat uppersurface. The test piece rests on a surface of a weighing scale and isnot constrained, for example the test piece is free to expand in size.The water is added until water is observed to leak from the absorbentmaterial or pool on top of the absorbent material. This indicates thatthe foam is saturated and the absorption capacity has been reached. Theweight at this point is recorded and used to calculate the absorptioncapacity based on the known weight of the dry foam tested.

The absorbent material may be at least partially arranged in a sectionof the chamber. In some examples, the section of the chamber and atleast a portion of the absorbent material may have correspondingcross-sectional shapes. This allows the absorbent material to bereceived within the chamber and provide a good fit, thereby reducingleakage. In a particular example the chamber and absorbent material havea circular cross-sectional shape.

The section of the chamber may be tubular, and at least a portion of theabsorbent material may be tubular. This allows better airflow throughabsorbent material. In a particular example, the section of the chamberis a cylindrical tube and the at least a portion of the absorbentmaterial is a cylindrical tube.

At least a portion of the absorbent material may be gas permeable. Thisallows air to be drawn through the absorbent material. A gas permeableabsorbent material can allow gas to pass through it, for example in thedirection towards the part of the chamber configured to receive theaerosol generating material. The action of drawing through a gaspermeable absorbent material may also cause any liquid within it to bedrawn towards the first end and away from the second end, reducing thelikelihood of leakage and moving the liquid towards a hotter portion ofthe device in use where the liquid may be more likely to evaporate. Thepressure drop created by drawing through the absorbent material ispreferably less than about 200 Pa (20 mm H2O), more preferably less thanabout 100 Pa (10 mm H2O) or less than 50 Pa (5 mm H2O). This will dependon the dimensions and material properties of the absorbent material inthe flow path and be tested by determining the difference in pressuredrop across the whole aerosol provision device with and without theabsorbent material in place.

The absorbent material may comprise a through-hole for air to passthrough. The through-hole may therefore allow the absorbent material tobe gas permeable with a reduced pressure drop. In a particular example,at least a portion of the absorbent material forms a tube which isreceived in a tubular section of the chamber.

The absorbent material may cover one or more air inlets. The absorbentmaterial therefore reduces liquid from leaking out of the air inlets. Asmentioned, the air inlets may be apertures formed in the cover.

An absorbent member may comprise the absorbent material supported by asubstrate. The substrate may provide rigidity and may hold the absorbentmaterial in place within the device. In one example, the substrate ishydrophobic and thus reduces the likelihood of liquid soaking throughthe whole absorbent member and then out of the device. In anotherexample, the substrate is at least partially absorbent, but is morerigid than the absorbent material. The substrate may have a lowerabsorption capacity than the absorbent material, and so can absorb lessliquid than the absorbing portion. The substrate may be gas-permeable.

In one example, the absorbent material forms at least part of a brush.Thus, the brush comprises the absorbent material. The brush thereforeacts as an absorbent member to retain/hold the liquid. The brush mayalso hold solid particles, such as loose tobacco.

The brush may comprise absorbent material in the form of bristles orfilaments. The brush may comprise absorbent material in the form of amesh. Bristles, filaments and meshes are absorbent materials becausethey retain/hold liquid droplets within their structure. For example,liquid droplets can be trapped in the space between bristles/filaments.Similarly, a mesh may comprise a structure of intertwined or wovenstrands which retain/hold liquid droplets in the spaces between them.

The brush may comprise absorbent material supported by a substrate. Thesubstrate may form a “backbone” to which the bristles, filaments or meshare attached.

As in other examples, the absorbent member may be removed from thedevice and either disposed of, or cleaned and replaced back into thedevice.

The substrate may comprise at least one engagement feature to engagewith the housing or cover. The cover or housing may have a correspondingengagement feature. The engagement feature(s) allows the absorbentmember to be secured in place. In one example, the substrate comprisesone or more protrusions to engage one or more correspondingchannels/notches formed in the housing or cover. In another example, thesubstrate comprises one or more recesses to receive one or morecorresponding protrusions formed in the housing or cover. In a specificexample, the engagement feature of the substrate and the correspondingengagement feature of the cover or housing form a bayonet lockingmechanism.

The chamber may comprise a barrier to separate the aerosol generatingmaterial from the absorbent material. The barrier may be known as ablocking member. The barrier may be defined by an end of a hollowtube/support which may form at least part of the chamber. For example,the hollow tube/support may have a narrower width than the rest of thechamber forming a step such that an end of the hollow tube abuts theaerosol generating material as it is received in the chamber and stopsthe aerosol generating material from contacting the absorbent material.The barrier may also be a separate part which is positioned or insertedin the chamber downstream of the absorbent material. When the barrier isa separate part, if may comprise one or more retention features toretain it in the chamber. The aerosol generating material may thereforebe prevented from entering the hollow tube/support. The absorbentmaterial may be arranged in the hollow tube or may be arranged in therecess of the cover. In any case, the barrier reduces the likelihood ofthe aerosol generating material from becoming wet by preventing contactbetween the aerosol generating material and the absorbent material.

The device may further comprise a hydrophobic material, such as ahydrophobic layer arranged within the housing to substantially preventliquid from leaking out of the aerosol provision device. For example,the hydrophobic material may substantially prevent liquid from leakingpast the cover when the cover is arranged in the first position. Thehydrophobic material provides a liquid impermeable layer which stops theliquid soaking through the absorbent material and out of the cover.

In a particular example, the absorbent material is arranged closer tothe first opening than the hydrophobic material is (i.e. the absorbentmaterial is arranged between the hydrophobic material and the aerosolgenerating material). The hydrophobic material may therefore stop anyliquid which soaks through the absorbent material. In an alternativeexample the hydrophobic material is arranged closer to the first openingthan the absorbent material is (i.e. the hydrophobic material isarranged between the absorbent material and the aerosol generatingmaterial). The hydrophobic material and absorbent material may bearranged in the recess of the cover. Alternatively, one of thehydrophobic material and the absorbent material may be arranged in therecess of the cover. In some embodiments the absorbent material isarranged at least partially within the chamber and the hydrophobicmaterial is arranged within the recess of the cover.

In some examples, at least a portion of the chamber is hydrophobic, orcomprises a hydrophobic coating, to encourage the liquid to flow towardsthe absorbent material. This helps reduce the likelihood of residuesetting inside the chamber.

In some examples, at least a portion of the chamber is formed frompolypropylene or polyethylene. A portion of the chamber may be coated ina layer of polypropylene or polyethylene in certain examples.Polypropylene and polyethylene are examples of hydrophobic materials.

In particular examples, at least a portion of the chamber surface ismodified to increase the hydrophobicity of the surface. One example ofmodifying the surface is polishing the surface so that the surface is apolished surface.

In examples comprising absorbent material, at least a portion of theabsorbent material may be configured to provide a visual indication toindicate that the absorbent material is ready to be replaced or cleaned.For example, the absorbent material may be ready to be replaced orcleaned when a predetermined volume of liquid has been absorbed by theabsorbent material or when the absorbent material has been used for apredetermined length of time.

In one example, the visual indication is a change in color of theportion of the absorbent material. For example, the absorbent materialmay be configured to change from a first color to a second color, wherethe first and second colors are different (or are at leastdistinguishable from each other).

In some examples, the liquid has a third color, and the second color isdifferent to the third color. Thus, the absorbent material may not turnthe same color as the liquid.

The change in color may occur non-uniformly across the absorbentmaterial. For example, an end of the absorbent material nearest theaerosol generating material may change color first, and an end furthestaway from the aerosol generating material may change color at a latertime. A user may clean or replace the absorbent material when the wholeof the absorbent material has changed color. In other examples, thechange in color may occur substantially uniformly across the absorbentmaterial. A user may clean or replace the absorbent material when theshade of the color suggests doing so.

In one example, the change in color occurs due to a change in pH value.The absorbent material may therefore comprise a chemical indicator, suchas a dye, to provide the visual indication. Thus, in one example, theabsorbent material changes color as a result of the pH value of theliquid.

In another example, the change in color occurs due to a change intemperature. The absorbent material can therefore change color due toexposure to heat, such as heat of the liquid.

In one example, the absorbent material comprises a capsule comprising acolored indicator within a shell, wherein the shell is configured tobreak down and release the colored indicator to provide the visualindication. The shell can therefore break down over time. In oneexample, the shell is dissolvable and dissolves due to exposure to theliquid. The colored indicator, such as a dye, can then leak out of thecapsule when the shell has dissolved. In one example, the shelldissolves due to the presence of water or glycerol within the liquid.Preferably the shell dissolves due to the presence of glycerol but notwater to ensure that the shell does not break down outside of the deviceand/or when not in use due to moisture within the air. In anotherexample, the shell breaks down due a chemical reaction with one or morechemicals within the liquid. In a further example, the shell breaks downdue to an exposure to heat within the device. In a particular example,there are a plurality of capsules each comprising a colored indicatorwithin a shell, where each shell is configured to break down at adifferent time. For example, a first capsule may release a first colorchemical indicator after one heating session, and a second capsule mayrelease a second chemical indicator after another heating session. Eachcapsule can have a different shell thickness such that the shells breakdown at different times.

In one example, a first portion of the absorbent material is configuredto provide a visual indication to indicate that the absorbent materialis ready to be replaced or cleaned. A second portion of the absorbentmaterial may provide a different visual indication or may not provide avisual indication.

In some examples, the first portion may be configured to change from afirst color to a second color, where the first and second colors aredifferent (or are at least distinguishable from each other). The liquidmay have a third color. and the second portion may be configured tochange from a fourth color to the third color. Thus, in some examples,the first portion is configured to change to a color that is differentto the color of the liquid and the second portion is only colorednaturally by the liquid, and so does not change to the same color as thefirst portion.

In a particular example, the first portion is arranged at a first end ofthe absorbent material, and the second portion is arranged at a secondend of the absorbent material, where the first end is an end furthestaway from the aerosol generating material (i.e. at the distal end of theabsorbent material) and the second end is an end closest to the aerosolgenerating material (i.e. at a proximal end). This may be useful becauseit shows that liquid has penetrated through the entire length of theabsorbent material, and so indicates that the absorbent material isready to be cleaned or replaced.

In some examples, the one or more chemical indicators or dyes areGenerally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the Food and Drug Administration(FDA). For example, the dyes may be food acceptable and optionally, afood grade material. The chemical indicators may therefore be non-toxicand safe for ingestion. This is useful because the indicators may beheated and aerosolized so may be inhaled or ingested by a user.

In one example, the visual indication comprises the appearance of aparticular pattern. For example, one or more markings or indicia mayappear when the absorbent material is ready to be replaced or cleaned.In some examples the pattern changes from a first pattern to a secondpattern when the absorbent material is ready to be replaced or cleaned.The appearance of a particular pattern may also comprise a change incolor.

In some examples, the visual indication is visible from outside of thedevice, such as through a window or opening in the outer cover of thedevice. In other examples, the visual indication is visible on openingthe cover.

According to a second aspect of the present disclosure there is providedan absorbent member for absorbing liquid in an aerosol provision device,the absorbent member comprising an absorbent material supported by asubstrate, wherein the absorbent member is configured to be at leastpartially received in a chamber or door of the aerosol provision deviceadjacent aerosol generating material.

In one example, the absorbent material may be at least partiallyreceived in the chamber, and the substrate may be at least partiallyarranged within a recess of a cover of the aerosol provision device. Inanother example, the absorbent material and the substrate may both be atleast partially arranged within a recess of a cover of the aerosolprovision device. In another example, the absorbent material and thesubstrate may both be at least partially received in the chamber.

The absorbent material may comprise any of the features described inrelation to the first aspect.

In one example, the absorbent material and substrate both comprise athrough-hole for air to pass through the absorbent member. The substratemay be hydrophobic.

According to the third aspect of the present disclosure there isprovided an aerosol provision device comprising a hydrophobic material,such as a hydrophobic layer, arranged within the housing tosubstantially prevent liquid from leaking out of the aerosol provisiondevice. Accordingly, instead of, or in addition to an absorbentmaterial, the device has a hydrophobic material to prevent liquid fromleaking out of the device. A hydrophobic material provides a liquidimpermeable layer which substantially prevents the liquid from leakingout of the device. The hydrophobic material therefore forms a liquidbarrier within the device. The hydrophobic material may be a membrane,for example. In some examples, the device may comprise a cover or door,and the hydrophobic material may be configured to substantially preventliquid from leaking past the cover when the cover is arranged in thefirst/closed position. Preventing the liquid from leaking may comprisereducing or eliminating liquid leakage.

The hydrophobic material may be arranged closer to the second openingthan it is to the first opening. The aerosol is generated by heating theaerosol generating material and is drawn through the chamber towards thefirst opening as a user inhales on the device. Accordingly, thehydrophobic material may be arranged upstream of the aerosol flow path.The hydrophobic material is therefore arranged close to the distal endof the device and collects liquid which flows towards the distal end ofthe device. Phrased differently, the chamber may define a first sectionto receive the aerosol generating material. The first section may be aheating section, for example. The hydrophobic material may be arrangedin the device between the first section and the second opening or thecover.

The hydrophobic material may act as a barrier upon which the liquid canpool. When a user opens the cover, the liquid may be poured off thehydrophobic material.

The chamber may have a first section to receive the aerosol generatingmaterial and a second section to receive the hydrophobic material. Thus,the hydrophobic material may be arranged at least partially within thechamber.

At least part of the hydrophobic material may be positioned between thecover and the second end/opening. That is, at least part of thehydrophobic material may not be positioned within the chamber. Thehydrophobic material may be at least partially arranged in an innerrecess of the cover or may be arranged on an outer surface of the cover,for example.

As mentioned, the cover may comprise a recess, and the hydrophobicmaterial may be arranged at least partially in the recess. The recesswithin the cover can allow the liquid to be poured off the hydrophobicmaterial more easily. For example, the cover can be opened and theliquid (which may have pooled on top of the hydrophobic material) can bepoured out of the device. In addition, by arranging the hydrophobicmaterial in the cover, the liquid is collected further away from theheater, which may keep the inside of the device/chamber cleaner.

In use, the hydrophobic material may be at least partially positionedbetween the aerosol generating material and the cover. That is, thehydrophobic material and aerosol generating material may be arrangedwithin the device at the same time. For example, the aerosol generatingmaterial may be arranged within a first section of the chamber and thehydrophobic material may be arranged in a second section of the chamber,or may be arranged in the recess of the cover. This means the liquid issubstantially prevented from leaking when the device is being used (i.e.during a heating session).

The cover may delimit one or more apertures for air to pass through, andthe hydrophobic material may be arranged within the housing to preventliquid from passing through the one or more apertures. The apertures maybe known as air inlets. For example, the hydrophobic material may be gaspermeable and is arranged to cover the one or more apertures. The one ormore apertures may be formed in the cover, for example.

As mentioned, the cover may comprise a recess, and the recess maycomprise a base and one or more sidewalls extending from the base. Thehydrophobic material may have a first surface area and the base may havea second surface area, where the first surface area is larger than thesecond surface area. Thus, when the hydrophobic material is received inthe recess, the hydrophobic material may at least partially extend upthe sidewall(s) to form a receptacle or reservoir for collecting liquid.In one example, the hydrophobic material comprises an adhesive layer foradhering the hydrophobic material to the base. This stops thehydrophobic material from coming loose, should the device be inverted.

The hydrophobic material may comprise polyethylene terephthalate (PET).PET is lightweight, flexible, cheap, and has high melting point (toavoid the hydrophobic material from deforming during a heating session).

The chamber may comprise a barrier to separate the aerosol generatingmaterial from the hydrophobic material. The barrier may be as discussedabove in combination with the absorbent material.

The chamber may define a first section to receive the aerosol generatingmaterial, and a second section to receive the hydrophobic material, andthe first section is arranged closer to first opening than the secondsection.

In some examples, the device further comprises an absorbing/absorbentmember/material. In a particular example, the absorbent material isarranged closer to the first opening than the hydrophobic material is(i.e. the absorbent material is arranged between the hydrophobicmaterial and the aerosol generating material). The hydrophobic materialmay therefore stop any liquid which soaks through the absorbentmaterial. In an alternative example the hydrophobic material is arrangedcloser to the first opening than the absorbent material is (i.e. thehydrophobic material is arranged between the absorbent material and theaerosol generating material). The hydrophobic material and absorbentmaterial may be arranged in the recess of the cover. Alternatively, oneof the hydrophobic material and the absorbent material may be arrangedin the recess of the cover. In some embodiments the absorbent materialis arranged at least partially within the chamber and the hydrophobicmaterial is arranged within the recess of the cover. The absorbentmaterial may comprise any of the features described in relation to thefirst or second aspects.

In some examples, at least a portion of the chamber is hydrophobic orcomprises a hydrophobic coating to encourage the liquid to flow towardsthe hydrophobic material.

A fourth aspect of the present disclosure defines an aerosol provisiondevice comprising a removable/detachable cover/door. The cover istherefore configured to receive liquid from the chamber and can bedetached to allow the collected liquid to be disposed of A detachablecover can allow the user to more easily dispose of the liquid and/orabsorbent/hydrophobic material (if present). The detachable nature ofthe cover can also allow the cover to be cleaned, which is particularlyuseful if the device itself is not water resistant.

In some examples, the cover comprises a liquid reservoir to receive theliquid. In some examples, the liquid reservoir retains the liquid. Thecover may be adapted to: (i) allow liquid to flow into the reservoir,and (ii) substantially restrict liquid from flowing out of thereservoir. For example, the cover may comprise a one-way valve to stopliquid from leaking out of the reservoir. Alternatively, the reservoirmay have an opening shaped to allow ingress of liquid, but whichrestricts egress of liquid.

In some examples, the cover comprises absorbent material. For example,the cover may comprise a recess and the absorbent material is arrangedat least partially in the recess. In some examples, the absorbentmaterial is removably adhered to the cover. A user can remove theabsorbent material, and either clean or dispose of it, before adheringclean absorbent material back onto the cover. In further examples, theabsorbent material is not removable/detachable from the cover. The doorcan be detached so that the absorbent material can be cleaned.

In some examples, the cover comprises hydrophobic material. For example,the cover may comprise a recess and the hydrophobic material is arrangedat least partially in the recess. In some examples, the hydrophobicmaterial is removably adhered to the cover. A user can remove thehydrophobic material, and either clean or dispose of it, before adheringclean hydrophobic material back onto the cover.

In some examples, at least a portion of the chamber is hydrophobic orcomprises a hydrophobic coating to encourage the liquid to flow towardsthe cover.

The device of the fourth aspect may comprise any of the featuresdescribed in relation to the first, second or third aspects.

According to another aspect, there is provided an aerosol provisiondevice, comprising a housing delimiting a first opening at a first endof the housing through which to receive aerosol generating material anddelimiting a second opening at a second end of the housing. The devicefurther comprises a chamber positioned between the second opening andthe first opening, wherein at least part of the chamber is configured toreceive the aerosol generating material. The device further comprises atleast one heater arranged within the housing and configured to heataerosol generating material received within the chamber thereby togenerate an aerosol. The device further comprises a brush configured toreceive and retain residue from the chamber. In use, the aerosol isdrawn along a flow path through the chamber towards the first openingand the brush is at least partially positioned upstream of the part ofthe chamber configured to receive the aerosol generating material.

In some examples, the brush receives and retains liquid residue from thechamber. In other examples, the brush receives and retains solid residuefrom the chamber. The brush can be removed from the device and becleaned or disposed of. The brush may be positioned fully in thechamber, or may be partially positioned in the chamber. In someexamples, the cover/door comprises a recess and the brush is arranged atleast partially in the recess.

In one example, the brush comprises absorbent material. The brushtherefore acts as an absorbent member and can absorb/hold liquid.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, a system comprises anaerosol generating device as discussed above and aerosol generatingmaterial contained or containable with the chamber. In some examples theaerosol generating material comprises part of an aerosol generatingarticle.

FIG. 1 shows an example of an aerosol provision device 100 forgenerating aerosol from an aerosol generating medium/material. In broadoutline, the device 100 may be used to heat a replaceable article 110comprising the aerosol generating medium, to generate an aerosol orother inhalable medium which is inhaled by a user of the device 100. Thedevice is a tobacco heating device, also known as a heat-not-burndevice.

The device 100 comprises a housing 102 (defined at least partially by anouter cover) which surrounds and houses various components of the device100. The device 100 or housing 102 has a first opening 104 in one end,through which the article 110 may be inserted for heating by a heatingassembly. In use, the article 110 may be fully or partially insertedinto a heating chamber where it may be heated by one or more componentsof the heater/heater assembly.

The device 100 of this example comprises a first end member 106 whichcomprises a lid 108 which is moveable relative to the first end member106 to close the first opening 104 when no article 110 is in place. InFIG. 1, the lid 108 is shown in an open configuration, however the lid108 may move into a closed configuration. For example, a user may causethe lid 108 to slide in the direction of arrow “A”.

The device 100 may also include a user-operable control element 112,such as a button or switch, which operates the device 100 when pressed.For example, a user may turn on the device 100 by operating the switch112.

The device 100 may also comprise an electrical component, such as asocket/port 114, which can receive a cable to charge a battery of thedevice 100. For example, the socket 114 may be a charging port, such asa USB charging port.

FIG. 2 depicts the device 100 of FIG. 1 with the outer cover 102 removedand without an article 110 present. The device 100 defines alongitudinal axis 134.

As shown in FIG. 2, the first end member 106 is arranged at one end ofthe device 100 and a second end member 116 is arranged at an oppositeend of the device 100. The first and second end members 106, 116together at least partially define end surfaces of the device 100. Forexample, the bottom surface of the second end member 116 at leastpartially defines a bottom surface of the device 100. In this example,the lid 108 also defines a portion of a top surface of the device 100.First and second end members 106, 116 are part of the device housing,such that the housing defines the first opening 104.

The end of the device 100 closest to the first opening 104 may be knownas the proximal end (or mouth end) of the device 100 because, in use, itis closest to the mouth of the user. In use, a user inserts an article110 into the first opening 104, operates the user control 112 to beginheating the aerosol generating material and draws on the aerosolgenerated in the device. This causes the aerosol to flow through thedevice 100 along a flow path towards the proximal end of the device 100.

The other end of the device furthest away from the first opening 104 maybe known as the distal end of the device 100 because, in use, it is theend furthest away from the mouth of the user. As a user draws on theaerosol generated in the device, the aerosol flows away from the distalend of the device 100.

The device 100 further comprises a power source 118. The power source118 may be, for example, a battery, such as a rechargeable battery or anon-rechargeable battery. The battery is electrically coupled to theheating assembly to supply electrical power when required and undercontrol of a controller (not shown) to heat the aerosol generatingmaterial. In this example, the battery is connected to a central support120 which holds the battery 118 in place.

The device further comprises at least one electronics module 122. Theelectronics module 122 may comprise, for example, a printed circuitboard (PCB). The PCB 122 may support at least one controller, such as aprocessor, and memory. The PCB 122 may also comprise one or moreelectrical tracks to electrically connect together various electroniccomponents of the device 100. For example, the battery terminals may beelectrically connected to the PCB 122 so that power can be distributedthroughout the device 100. The socket 114 may also be electricallycoupled to the battery via the electrical tracks.

In the example device 100, the heating assembly is an inductive heatingassembly and comprises various components to heat the aerosol generatingmaterial of the article 110 via an inductive heating process. Inductionheating is a process of heating an electrically conducting object (suchas a susceptor) by electromagnetic induction. An induction heatingassembly may comprise an inductive element, for example, one or moreinductor coils, and a device for passing a varying electric current,such as an alternating electric current, through the inductive element.The varying electric current in the inductive element produces a varyingmagnetic field. The varying magnetic field penetrates a susceptorsuitably positioned with respect to the inductive element and generateseddy currents inside the susceptor. The susceptor has electricalresistance to the eddy currents, and hence the flow of the eddy currentsagainst this resistance causes the susceptor to be heated by Jouleheating. In cases where the susceptor comprises ferromagnetic materialsuch as iron, nickel or cobalt, heat may also be generated by magnetichysteresis losses in the susceptor, i.e. by the varying orientation ofmagnetic dipoles in the magnetic material as a result of their alignmentwith the varying magnetic field. In inductive heating, as compared toheating by conduction for example, heat is generated inside thesusceptor, allowing for rapid heating. Further, there need not be anyphysical contact between the inductive heater and the susceptor,allowing for enhanced freedom in construction and application.

The induction heating assembly of the example device 100 comprises asusceptor arrangement 132 (herein referred to as “a susceptor”), a firstinductor coil 124 and a second inductor coil 126. The first and secondinductor coils 124, 126 are made from an electrically conductingmaterial. In this example, the first and second inductor coils 124, 126are made from a multi-strand wire, such as a litz wire/cable which iswound in a generally helical fashion to provide the inductor coils 124,126. Litz wire comprises a plurality of wire strands which areindividually insulated and are twisted together to form a single wire.Litz wires are designed to reduce the skin effect losses in a conductor.In the example device 100, the first and second inductor coils 124, 126are made from copper Litz wire which has a rectangular cross section. Inother examples the Litz wire can have other shape cross sections.

The first inductor coil 124 is configured to generate a first varyingmagnetic field for heating a first section of the susceptor 132 and thesecond inductor coil 126 is configured to generate a second varyingmagnetic field for heating a second section of the susceptor 132. Inthis example, the first inductor coil 124 is adjacent to the secondinductor coil 126 in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis 134of the device 100. Ends 130 of the first and second inductor coils 124,126 can be connected to the PCB 122.

It will be appreciated that the first and second inductor coils 124,126, in some examples, may have at least one characteristic differentfrom each other. For example, the first inductor coil 124 may have atleast one characteristic different from the second inductor coil 126.More specifically, in one example, the first inductor coil 124 may havea different value of inductance than the second inductor coil 126. InFIG. 2, the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 are of differentlengths such that the first inductor coil 124 is wound over a smallersection of the susceptor 132 than the second inductor coil 126. Thus,the first inductor coil 124 may comprise a different number of turnsthan the second inductor coil 126 (assuming that the spacing betweenindividual turns is substantially the same). In yet another example, thefirst inductor coil 124 may be made from a different material to thesecond inductor coil 126. In some examples, the first and secondinductor coils 124, 126 may be substantially identical.

The susceptor 132 of this example is hollow and therefore defines atleast part of a chamber within which aerosol generating material isreceived. For example, the article 110 can be inserted into thesusceptor 132. In this example the susceptor 120 is tubular, with acircular cross section.

The susceptor 132, and the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 mayform at least part of the heater/heater assembly. The heated susceptor132 therefore heats aerosol generating material received within thehousing/device.

The device 100 of FIG. 2 further comprises an insulating member 128which may be generally tubular and at least partially surround thesusceptor 132. The insulating member 128 may be constructed from anyinsulating material, such as plastic for example. In this particularexample, the insulating member is constructed from polyether etherketone (PEEK). The insulating member 128 may help insulate the variouscomponents of the device 100 from the heat generated in the susceptor132.

The insulating member 128 can also fully or partially support the firstand second inductor coils 124, 126. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, thefirst and second inductor coils 124, 126 are positioned around theinsulating member 128 and are in contact with a radially outward surfaceof the insulating member 128. In some examples the insulating member 128does not abut the first and second inductor coils 124, 126. For example,a small gap may be present between the outer surface of the insulatingmember 128 and the inner surface of the first and second inductor coils124, 126.

In a specific example, the susceptor 132, the insulating member 128, andthe first and second inductor coils 124, 126 are coaxial around acentral longitudinal axis of the susceptor 132.

FIG. 3 shows a side view of device 100 in partial cross-section. Theouter cover 102 is present in this example.

The device 100 further comprises a support 136 which engages one end ofthe susceptor 132 to hold the susceptor 132 in place. The support 136 isconnected to the second end member 116. The support 136 may also beknown as a hollow member, hollow tube, or cleanout tube.

The device may also comprise a second printed circuit board 138associated within the control element 112.

The device 100 further comprises a cover, which in this example is adoor 140, and a spring 142, arranged towards the distal end of thedevice 100. The spring 142 allows the door 140 to be opened, to provideaccess to a second opening formed in the housing. The second opening maybe defined by an end of the support 136, for example. Through the secondopening, a user may access the chamber to clean the susceptor 132 and/orthe support 136. The device 100 or housing 102 therefore defines thesecond opening at the second end of the device/housing. Similarly, thedevice 100 or housing 102 defines the first opening 104 at the first endof the device/housing. The first and second ends may be opposite to eachother. A chamber or channel is formed between the door 140 and the firstopening 104. For example, the chamber/channel may be at least partiallydefined by the support 136 and the susceptor 132. The door 140 can bemoved between two positions. In a first position, the second opening iscovered by the door 140, and in a second position the second opening isnot covered by the door 140.

The device 100 further comprises an expansion chamber 144 which extendsaway from a proximal end of the susceptor 132 towards the first opening104 of the device. Located at least partially within the expansionchamber 144 is a retention clip 146 to abut and hold the article 110when received within the device 100. The expansion chamber 144 isconnected to the end member 106. The expansion chamber 144 may alsodefine at least part of the chamber/channel.

FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the device 100 of FIG. 1, with the outercover 102 omitted.

FIG. 5A depicts a cross section of a portion of the device 100 ofFIG. 1. FIG. 5B depicts a close-up of a region of FIG. 5A. FIGS. 5A and5B show the article 110 received within the susceptor 132, where thearticle 110 is dimensioned so that the outer surface of the article 110abuts the inner surface of the susceptor 132. The article 110 of thisexample comprises aerosol generating material 110 a. The aerosolgenerating material 110 a is positioned within the susceptor 132. Thearticle 110 may also comprise other components such as a filter,wrapping materials and/or a cooling structure.

FIG. 5B shows that the outer surface of the susceptor 132 is spacedapart from the inner surface of the inductor coils 124, 126 by adistance 150, measured in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinalaxis 158 of the susceptor 132. In one particular example, the distance150 is about 3 mm to 4 mm, about 3 mm to 3.5 mm, or about 3.25 mm.

FIG. 5B further shows that the outer surface of the insulating member128 is spaced apart from the inner surface of the inductor coils 124,126 by a distance 152, measured in a direction perpendicular to alongitudinal axis 158 of the susceptor 132. In one particular example,the distance 152 is about 0.05 mm. In another example, the distance 152is substantially 0 mm, such that the inductor coils 124, 126 abut andtouch the insulating member 128.

In one example, the susceptor 132 has a wall thickness 154 of about0.025 mm to 1 mm, or about 0.05 mm.

In one example, the susceptor 132 has a length of about 40 mm to 60 mm,about 40 mm to 45 mm, or about 44.5 mm.

In one example, the insulating member 128 has a wall thickness 156 ofabout 0.25 mm to 2 mm, 0.25 mm to 1 mm, or about 0.5 mm.

FIG. 6A depicts the distal/bottom end of the device 100. In FIG. 6A, thedoor 140 is arranged in first position in which the second opening tothe chamber is closed. One or more apertures 160 form air inlets withinthe door. Air can be drawn into the chamber and through the device 100towards the first opening 104 via the apertures 160.

FIG. 6B depicts the distal/bottom end of the device 100 with the door140 omitted. The spring 142 and bottom end of the support 136 are seen.The end of the support 136 and/or the second end member 116 define thesecond opening 162. The support 136 and susceptor 132 can be cleaned viathe second opening 162. For example, a cleaning tool may be introducedinto the chamber.

FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of the aerosol provision device withcertain components of the heating assembly omitted. For example, thesecond inductor coil 126 is omitted. The susceptor 132 and the support136 at least partially define a chamber through which air and aerosolcan flow. The susceptor 132 may form a first section of the chamber,which receives the aerosol generating material. The support 136 supportsone end of the susceptor 132 and may form a second section of thechamber.

It has been found that when an article comprising aerosol generatingmaterial is heated within the chamber of the device 100, aerosol cancool and condense inside the device. For example, aerosol can condenseon inner surfaces of the support 136 which is cooler than the susceptor.Condensation may also occur on the susceptor 132 as it cools after useor as different portions of the susceptor are heated to differenttemperatures. This condensate or liquid can run down the inside of thechamber and collect at the bottom of the device. For example, the liquidmay collect in the door 140. The liquid may then leak out of theapertures 160 formed in the door 140 or may leak around the perimeter ofthe door. Furthermore, the liquid may leak out when the door 140 isopened.

It may be useful to absorb this liquid before it can leak out of thedevice. Accordingly, in some examples, one or more absorbent materialmay be arranged within the device 100 to absorb any liquid that forms orgathers within the chamber. The absorbent material may be removable fromthe device, so that it can either be cleaned and replaced within thedevice, or it may be disposed of and replaced with a new absorbentmaterial. FIGS. 8-13 and 17 depict various absorbent members andabsorbent materials of different shapes and constructions which may beused within the device to prevent liquid from leaking out of the device100.

In another example, it may be useful to collect the liquid to preventthe liquid from leaking out of the device 100 past the door 140.Accordingly, in some examples, hydrophobic material in the form of oneor more hydrophobic layers or membranes may be arranged within thedevice 100 to prevent liquid from leaking. A hydrophobic layer is alayer which is impermeable to liquid. The liquid can then collect on thehydrophobic layer. FIGS. 14-17 depict a hydrophobic layer which may beused to prevent liquid from leaking out of the device 100.

FIG. 8 depicts a cross-sectional view of a first absorbent member 164comprising absorbent material and arranged within the chamber of theaerosol provision device. In particular, the absorbent member 164 isarranged within the support 136 and is positioned towards the end of thesupport 136 adjacent the second opening. Accordingly, the absorbentmember 164 is arranged closer to the second opening 162 than it is tothe first opening 104. When aerosol generating material is received inthe chamber (such as in the susceptor 132), and the door 140 is in thefirst position, the absorbent member 164 is arranged within the chamberbetween the door 140 and the aerosol generating material.

In this example, the absorbent member 164 is made from celluloseacetate, and can therefore absorb and hold liquid which comes intocontact with the absorbent member 164. In other examples, the absorbentmember 164 is made from other absorbent materials, such as paper orfoam.

FIG. 9 depicts a perspective view of the absorbent member 164. Theabsorbent member is tubular and is generally cylindrical with a lengthof between 5 mm and 20 mm, such as about 10 mm. The absorbent member 164therefore has a circular cross-sectional shape. In FIG. 8, the absorbentmember 164 is arranged in a section of the chamber defined by thesupport 136. The support 136 is also tubular and has a circularcross-sectional shape that corresponds to that of the absorbent member164. The inner diameter of the support 136 is substantially the same asthe outer diameter 166 of the absorbent member 164 to provide a closefit, such as an interference fit, within the support and reduce leakagearound the outer surfaces of the absorbent member. For example, thediameter of the absorbent member can be between 4 mm and 5 mm,preferably between 4.4 mm and 4.6 mm, with corresponding inner diameterof the support. This interference fit can also help hold the absorbentmember 164 in place. The inner diameter of the support 136 may beslightly smaller than the outer diameter 166 of the absorbent member 164so that the absorbent member is in a compressed state when it isreceived in the chamber. This compressed state can ensure that theabsorbent member 164 abuts the inner surface of the chamber at allpositions around the absorbent member 164 to substantially preventliquid from flowing around the absorbent member 164.

In the example of FIGS. 8 and 9, the absorbent member 164 arranged nearto one or more of the apertures 160. The absorbent member 164 istherefore gas permeable to allow air to flow through the absorbentmember 164. For example, air may be drawn through the apertures 160 andthrough the absorbent member 164 towards the aerosol generating materiallocated further along the chamber. In this example, the absorbent member164 is gas permeable, for example the absorbency may be provided by amaterial with voids that allow gas flow, such a foam material. Inaddition, a through hole 168 extends through the absorbent member toprovide a flow path with reduced pressure drop. The absorbent member 164may therefore be in the form of a hollow tube where the outer materialof the absorbent member abuts the inner surface of the chamber toreceive liquid as it flows down the inside of the inner surface. In thisexample, the material from which the absorbent member 164 is made isalso gas permeable. Gas molecules can therefore flow through thematerial of the absorbent member 164 as well as through the through hole168. The through hole 168 may help reduce the pressure drop through thechamber, so that the user need not draw on the device 100 with as muchforce. In some examples, the through hole 168 may be omitted.

FIG. 10 depicts a cross-sectional view of a second absorbent member 174which comprises absorbent material and is arranged within a recess 170of the door 140. Liquid may flow down the inside of the chamber and dripthrough the second opening 162 into the absorbent member 174. Theabsorbent member 174 therefore stops the liquid from leaking out of thedevice 100 (i.e. stops the liquid from leaking past the door 140).

As in the example of FIG. 8, the absorbent member 174 is arranged closerto the second opening 162 than it is to the first opening 104. Whenaerosol generating material is received in the chamber (such as in thesusceptor 132), and the door 140 is in the first position, the absorbentmember 164 is arranged between the door 140 and the aerosol generatingmaterial.

In some examples, the absorbent member 174 may extend out of the recess170, such that is arranged in both the recess 170 and the chamber whenthe door 140 is in the first/closed position.

In this example, the recess comprises a base 170 a and one or moresidewalls 170 b extending away from the base towards the second opening162. The one or more apertures 160 are formed in the base of the recess170 such that the absorbent member 174 covers the one or more apertures160. In other examples the one or more apertures 160 may be formed inthe door 140 but are not formed in the base of the recess 170.

In this example, the absorbent member 174 is made from foam, and cantherefore absorb and hold liquid which comes into contact with theabsorbent member 174. The absorbent member 174 may be made from otherabsorbent materials, such as paper or cellulose acetate.

In some examples, the door 140 is removable/detachable from the device.For example, the door 140 may comprise one or more fasteners (not shown)which allow the door 140 to be connected to the device, such as thesecond end member 116. A user may remove the door 140 to allow theabsorbent member 174 to be more easily cleaned or replaced. The door maybe completely detachable from the device.

FIG. 11 depicts a perspective view of the absorbent member 174. Theabsorbent member may be disk-shaped and is generally cylindrical. Theabsorbent member is about 2.5 mm high and about 8 mm in diameter. Theabsorbent member 174 therefore has a circular cross-sectional shape. InFIG. 10, the absorbent member 174 is arranged in the recess 170. Therecess 170 is also disk-shaped and has a circular cross-sectional shapethat corresponds to that of the absorbent member 174. The inner diameterof the recess 170 is substantially the same as the outer diameter 176 ofthe absorbent member 174 to provide a close fit. For example, aninterference fit can help hold the absorbent member 174 in place whenthe door is opened. The inner diameter of the recess 170 may be slightlysmaller than the outer diameter 176 of the absorbent member 174 so thatthe absorbent member is in a compressed state when it is received in thechamber. This compressed state can ensure that the absorbent member 174abuts the one or more sidewalls 170 b of the recess 170 at all positionsaround the absorbent member 174 to reduce the likelihood of liquid fromflowing around the absorbent member 174.

In the example of FIGS. 10 and 11, the absorbent member 174 covers oneor more of the apertures 160. The absorbent member 174 is therefore gaspermeable to allow air to flow through the absorbent member 174. Forexample, air may be drawn through the apertures 160 and through theabsorbent member 174 towards the aerosol generating material located inthe chamber. In this example, the absorbent member 174 is gas permeablebecause it is made from material which is gas permeable. In someexamples, the absorbent member 174 also comprises a through hole throughwhich air can flow.

In other examples where an absorbent member is arranged in a recess of adoor, it may be positioned so that it does not obstruct a fluid flowpath. For example, rather than covering apertures in the door it couldbe positioned inside the apertures. It is still upstream of the fluidflow path, but the fluid flow path can bypass the absorbent member andany pressure drop associated with it.

FIG. 12 depicts a perspective view of a third absorbent member 184comprising an absorbent material 184 a supported by a substrate 184 b.The substrate 184 b in this example is more rigid than the absorbentmaterial 184 a. In this example, the absorbent material 184 a is to bearranged in the chamber of the device 100. For example, the absorbentmaterial 184 a can be received within the support 136. The substrate 184b can be received in a recess formed in the door or may be received in awider portion of the chamber. In a particular example, the substrate 184b is received in the recess of the door and when the door is moved intothe first/closed position, the absorbent material 184 a is received inthe chamber. Accordingly, the absorbent member 184 may extend out of therecess, such that is arranged in both the recess and the chamber whenthe door 140 is in the first/closed position.

The substrate of this example comprises one or more engagement featuresin the form of protrusions 182 to engage with one or more correspondingengagement features on the door or housing. For example, each of theprotrusions 182 may be received in a channel/notch formed in the one ormore sidewalls of the recess of the door. The one or more engagementfeatures allow the absorbent member 184 to be secured in place so thatthe absorbent member 184 does not move around within the device or fallout of the device when the door 140 is opened.

In this example, the absorbent material 184 a is paper, and cantherefore absorb and hold liquid which comes into contact with theabsorbent member 184. The absorbent material 184 may be other absorbentmaterials, such as foam or cellulose acetate. The substrate 184 b may bemade from plastic, such as PEEK, and the absorbing portion 184 a may beadhered to the substrate 184 b.

The absorbent material 184 a is tubular and is generally cylindrical.The absorbent material 184 a therefore has a circular cross-sectionalshape. The absorbent material 184 a can be arranged in a section of thechamber defined by the support 136. The support 136 is also tubular andhas a circular cross-sectional shape that corresponds to that of theabsorbent material 184 a. The inner diameter of the support 136 issubstantially the same as the outer diameter 186 of the absorbentmaterial 184 a to provide a close fit and reduce leakage. Thisinterference fit can also help hold the absorbent member 184 in place(which may be useful if the absorbent member 184 does not have anyengagement features). The substrate 184 b is disk-shaped and isgenerally cylindrical. The substrate 184 b therefore has a circularcross-sectional shape. The substrate 184 b may be arranged a recess ofthe door 140, so the recess may also be disk-shaped and have a circularcross-sectional shape that corresponds to that of the substrate 184 b.The inner diameter of the recess may be substantially the same as theouter diameter 188 of the substrate 184 b to provide a close fit (whichmay be useful if the absorbent member 184 does not have any engagementfeatures).

The absorbent member 184 may be arranged to cover one or more of theapertures 160 in the door 140. The absorbent member 184 may therefore begas permeable to allow air to flow through the absorbent member 184. Inthis example, the absorbent member 184 also has a through hole 180extending through it. The through hole 180 extends through the absorbingportion 184 a and the substrate 184 b to provide a flow path throughboth the absorbent material 184 a and the substrate 184 b. In thisexample, the absorbent material is also gas permeable. The material fromwhich the substrate 184 b is made may not be gas permeable.

FIG. 13 depicts a perspective view of a fourth absorbent member 194comprising an absorbent material supported by a substrate 194 b. Theabsorbent material comprises a first part 194 a and a second part 194 c.The first and second parts 194 a, 194 c may be different to each other.For example, they may have different dimensions or may comprisedifferent materials or may comprise the same materials but withdifferent absorbency properties.

The substrate 194 b in this example is more rigid than the absorbingportion.

In this example, the first part 194 a of absorbing portion is to bearranged in the chamber of the device 100. For example, the first part194 a can be received within the support 136. The substrate 194 b can bereceived in a recess formed in the door 140. The second part 194 c ofthe absorbent material may be arranged between the chamber and therecess of the door 140. The second part 194 c can therefore absorb anyliquid which has managed to escape the chamber. Accordingly, theabsorbent member 194 may extend out of the recess, such that is arrangedin both the recess and the chamber when the door 140 is in thefirst/closed position.

The substrate of this example comprises one or more engagement featuresin the form of protrusions 192 to engage with one or more correspondingengagement features on the door or housing.

In this example, the first part 194 a is made from cellulose acetate andthe second part 194 c is made from foam or paper. Other materials may beused instead. In some examples the first and second parts 194 a, 194 care made from the same material. The substrate 194 b may be made fromplastic, such as PEEK, and the absorbing portion may be adhered to thesubstrate 194 b.

The first part 194 a is tubular and is generally cylindrical. The firstpart 194 a therefore has a circular cross-sectional shape. The firstpart 194 a can be arranged in a section of the chamber defined by thesupport 136. The support 136 may also tubular and has a circularcross-sectional shape that corresponds to that of the first part 194 a.The inner diameter of the support 136 is substantially the same as theouter diameter 196 of the first part 194 a to provide a close fit andreduce leakage. An interference fit can also help hold the absorbentmember 194 in place (which may be useful if the absorbent member 194does not have any engagement features).

The second part 194 c is disk-shaped and is generally cylindrical. Thesecond part 194 c therefore has a circular cross-sectional shape. Thesecond part 194 c may be arranged between the end of the support 136 andthe recess of the door 140. In some examples, the cross-sectional shapeof the second part 194 c may not need to correspond to that of anycomponents of the device. In another example, the second part 194 c maybe received in a wider bottom section of the chamber, such as a widersection of the support 136, and the cross-sectional shape of the secondpart 194 c may correspond to that of the section of the chamber/supportwhich receives the second part 194 c.

The substrate 194 b is disk-shaped and is generally cylindrical. Thesubstrate 194 b therefore has a circular cross-sectional shape. Thesubstrate 194 b may be arranged a recess of the door 140, so the recessmay also be disk-shaped and have a circular cross-sectional shape thatcorresponds to that of the substrate 194 b. The inner diameter of therecess may be substantially the same as the outer diameter 198 of thesubstrate 194 b to provide a “snug” fit (which may be useful if theabsorbent member 194 does not have any engagement features).

The absorbent member 194 may be arranged to cover one or more of theapertures 160 in the door 140. The absorbent member 194 may therefore begas permeable to allow air to flow through the absorbent member 194. Athrough hole 190 extends through the absorbing portion and the substrate194 b to provide a flow path through both the absorbing portion and thesubstrate 194 b. In this example, the material from which the absorbingportion is made is also gas permeable. In other examples, the materialfrom which the substrate 194 b is made is not be gas permeable.

In the examples of FIGS. 8, 9, 12 and 13 discussed above, the absorbentmember is at least partially tubular. In other examples, the absorbentmember may be generally solid and cylindrical. In other words, theabsorbent member may take the form of a cylindrical “plug”. Theabsorbent member in these examples is gas-permeable to provide a fluidflow path through the absorbent member. Dimensions may be similar to theFIG. 9 example: about 5 mm to 20 mm in length and about 4 mm to 5 mm indiameter. In one configuration the absorbent member may be a cylinder of4.4 mm to 4.6 mm in diameter and about 10 mm in length.

When the absorbent member is solid, it will present a greater pressuredrop in the fluid flow path due to the increased resistance to passthrough the absorbent member. There is therefore a balance of pressuredrop against effective absorbency, both in the composition of thematerial and on the overall dimensions. For example, a particularabsorption capacity or internal structure may present less of a pressuredrop but reduce fluid retention in the absorbent member. Likewise, alonger absorbent member will present a greater pressure drop but willhave a greater volume to retain liquid before becoming saturated. It hasbeen found that an absorbent member with a length of 5 to 15 mm, such asabout 10 mm provides a good balance of these properties.

In either of FIG. 8 or 10, a hydrophobic layer may be arranged withinthe device to substantially prevent liquid from leaking out of thedevice past the door 140. For example, a hydrophobic layer may be usedin place of the absorbent members 164, 174, 184, 194. In some examples,a hydrophobic layer is used as well as an absorbent member to furtherreduce the likelihood of leakage.

FIG. 14 depicts a perspective view of a hydrophobic layer 204 accordingto an example. A hydrophobic layer 204 is a liquid impermeable layerthat can be arranged within the device. For example, the hydrophobiclayer 204 can be arranged within the chamber or within a recess of thedoor. A hydrophobic layer 204 therefore forms a liquid barrier withinthe device. If the hydrophobic layer 204 is arranged in the chamber,liquid may be substantially prevented from passing through the secondopening 162. If the hydrophobic layer 204 is arranged in a recess of thedoor 140, liquid may be substantially prevented from passing beyond thedoor 140, such as through one or more apertures formed in the door.

FIG. 15 is a diagrammatic representation of part of the device 100 witha hydrophobic layer 204 arranged within the recess 170 of the door 140.At least part of the hydrophobic layer 204 is therefore positionedbetween the door 140 and the second end 162. The door 140 is arranged ina first position, such that the second opening 162 is closed/covered bythe door 140.

Liquid 202 may flow down the inside of the chamber (such as down theinside of the support 136) and drip through the second opening 162 ontothe hydrophobic layer 204. The hydrophobic layer 204 therefore stops theliquid 202 from leaking out of the device 100 (i.e. stops the liquidfrom leaking past the door 140). The hydrophobic layer 204 may act as abarrier upon which the liquid 202 can pool.

The hydrophobic layer 204 is arranged closer to the second opening 162than it is to the first opening 104. When aerosol generating material isreceived in the chamber (such as in the susceptor 132), and the door 140is in the first position, the hydrophobic layer 204 is arranged betweenthe door 140 and the aerosol generating material.

In some examples, the hydrophobic layer 204 may extend out of the recess170, such that is arranged in both the recess 170 and the chamber whenthe door 140 is in the first/closed position.

As mentioned in relation to FIG. 10, the recess 170 comprises a base 170a and one or more sidewalls 170 b extending away from the base towardsthe second opening 162. The one or more apertures 160 are formed in thebase 170 a of the recess 170 such that the hydrophobic layer 204 coversthe one or more apertures 160. The hydrophobic layer 204 is thereforearranged within the housing to prevent liquid 202 from passing throughthe one or more apertures 160. In some examples, the hydrophobic layeris gas permeable. In some examples the one or more apertures 160 may beformed in the door 140 but are not formed in the base of the recess 170.

The hydrophobic layer 204 may have a first surface area and the base 170a may have a second surface area, where the first surface area is largerthan the second surface area. Thus, as shown in FIG. 15, when thehydrophobic layer 204 is received in the recess 170, the hydrophobiclayer 204 partially extends up the sidewalls 170 b to form a receptacleor reservoir for collecting the liquid 202.

In this example, the hydrophobic layer 204 is made from comprisepolyethylene terephthalate (PET). The hydrophobic layer 204 may be madefrom other hydrophobic materials in other examples.

FIG. 16 depicts the door 140 arranged in a second position such that thesecond opening 162 is not covered by the door 140. As the door 140 isopened, the hydrophobic layer 204 is tilted, and the liquid 202 may runoff the hydrophobic layer and be poured out of the device 100. The door140 can then be returned to the first/closed position of FIG. 15.

In some examples, the device comprises an absorbing/absorbent member inaddition to a hydrophobic layer. For example, a hydrophobic layer may bearranged within a recess of the door 140 in FIG. 8 such that theabsorbent member 164 is arranged closer to the first opening 104 thanthe hydrophobic layer. Alternatively, the hydrophobic layer may bearranged at least partially within in the chamber rather than beingwithin the recess of the door 140. In both of these examples, liquid mayonly arrive at the hydrophobic layer if it manages to move beyond theabsorbent member 164 (i.e. the absorbent member is arranged between thehydrophobic layer and the aerosol generating material).

In another example, a hydrophobic layer may be arranged within therecess 170 of the door 140 in FIG. 10 such that the hydrophobic layer isarranged closer to the first opening 104 than the absorbent member 174.The hydrophobic layer may cover the absorbent member 174, for example.Alternatively, the hydrophobic layer may be arranged at least partiallywithin the chamber rather than being within the recess of the door 140.In both of these examples, liquid may only arrive at the absorbentmember 174 if it manages to move beyond the hydrophobic layer (i.e. thehydrophobic layer is arranged between the absorbent member and theaerosol generating material).

In another example, a hydrophobic layer and an absorbent member 174 maybe arranged within the recess 170 of the door 140 in FIG. 10 such thatthe absorbent member 174 is arranged closer to the first opening 104than the hydrophobic layer. The hydrophobic layer may cover the base 170a of the recess 170 and the absorbent member 174 may be arranged on topof the hydrophobic layer, for example. Liquid may only arrive at thehydrophobic layer if it manages to move beyond the absorbent member 174(i.e. the absorbent member is arranged between the hydrophobic layer andthe aerosol generating material).

FIG. 17 depicts an absorbent member 206 arranged on a hydrophobic layer208. The absorbent member 206 and hydrophobic layer 208 may havedifferent shapes to those depicted. The absorbent member 206 may beadhered to the hydrophobic layer 208.

In examples which include an absorbent material, the absorbent materialmay also be modified to change the sensory experience of a user inaddition to absorbing any condensate liquid. For example, the absorbentmember could be impregnated or otherwise infused with an aerosolmodifying agent, such as a flavorant. Such an aerosol modifying agentmay be contained within the absorbent material, using the absorbentmaterial as a matrix to hold the aerosol modifying material. The aerosolmodifying material may be included at manufacture of the absorbentmaterial and sealed in a package to prevent evaporation beforeinstallation into an aerosol provision device. Alternatively oradditionally, the aerosol modifying material may be provided in acontainer within or associated with the absorbent material which isdesigned to break, rupture or disintegrate when the absorbent materialis installed into an aerosol provision device, thus delivering theaerosol modifying material into the absorbent material.

When an aerosol modifying material is incorporated into the absorbentmaterial, it may be desirable to increase the volume of the absorbentmaterial, so that the flavorant can be present in combination with anyliquid absorbed without saturating the absorbent material. Some examplesincrease the diameter of a solid cylindrical absorbent member to dothis. For example, the diameter may be increased from around 4.4 mm to4.6 mm to around 7 mm to 9 mm, such as around 8.2 mm. Increasing thediameter has minimal effect on pressure drop in use, and all otherthings being equal it will decrease the pressure drop because there aremore paths through the absorbent material.

An aerosol modifying agent is a substance that is able to modify aerosolin use. The agent may modify aerosol in such a way as to create aphysiological or sensory effect on the human body. Example aerosolmodifying agents are flavorants and sensates. A sensate creates anorganoleptic sensation that can be perceived through the senses, such asa cool or sour sensation.

The aerosol modifying agent may be held in an agent release componentsuch as a capsule, a thread, or a bead. The component may be selectivelyactuatable, such as by a user, to release the aerosol modifying agent.

As used herein, the terms “flavor” and “flavorant” refer to materialswhich, where local regulations permit, may be used to create a desiredtaste or aroma in a product for adult consumers.

As used herein, the terms “flavor” and “flavorant” refer to materialswhich, where local regulations permit, may be used to create a desiredtaste or aroma in a product for adult consumers. They may includeextracts (e.g., licorice, hydrangea, Japanese white bark magnolia leaf,chamomile, fenugreek, clove, menthol, Japanese mint, aniseed, cinnamon,herb, wintergreen, cherry, berry, peach, apple, Drambuie, bourbon,scotch, whiskey, spearmint, peppermint, lavender, cardamom, celery,cascarilla, nutmeg, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, honey essence, roseoil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, cassia, caraway, cognac, jasmine,ylang-ylang, sage, fennel, piment, ginger, anise, coriander, coffee, ora mint oil from any species of the genus Mentha), flavor enhancers,bitterness receptor site blockers, sensorial receptor site activators orstimulators, sugars and/or sugar substitutes (e.g., sucralose,acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharine, cyclamates, lactose,sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol, or mannitol), and other additivessuch as charcoal, chlorophyll, minerals, botanicals, or breathfreshening agents. They may be imitation, synthetic or naturalingredients or blends thereof. They may be in any suitable form, forexample, oil, liquid, or powder.

The above described examples have included wholly hydrophobic and whollyabsorbent portions. Other examples may provide an absorbent materialwith a composite structure of hydrophobic and hydrophilic elements. Thehydrophobic elements can assist with wicking into the absorbent materialwhere liquid is then retained by the hydrophilic elements. The aboveembodiments are to be understood as illustrative examples of theinvention.

Further embodiments of the invention are envisaged. It is to beunderstood that any feature described in relation to any one embodimentmay be used alone, or in combination with other features described, andmay also be used in combination with one or more features of any otherof the embodiments, or any combination of any other of the embodiments.Furthermore, equivalents and modifications not described above may alsobe employed without departing from the scope of the invention, which isdefined in the accompanying claims.

1. An aerosol provision device, comprising: a housing delimiting a firstopening at a first end of the housing, through which to receive aerosolgenerating material, and delimiting a second opening at a second end ofthe housing; a chamber positioned between the second opening and thefirst opening, wherein at least part of the chamber is configured toreceive the aerosol generating material; at least one heater arrangedwithin the housing and configured to heat aerosol generating materialreceived within the chamber thereby to generate an aerosol; and anabsorbent material for absorbing liquid; wherein, in use, the aerosol isdrawn along a flow path through the chamber towards the first openingand the absorbent material is at least partially positioned upstream ofthe at least part of the chamber configured to receive the aerosolgenerating material.
 2. The aerosol provision device according to claim1, further comprising a cover movable between a first position in whichthe second opening is blocked by the cover, and a second position inwhich the second opening is not blocked by the cover.
 3. The aerosolprovision device according to claim 2, wherein: the cover comprises arecess; and the absorbent material is arranged at least partially in therecess.
 4. The aerosol provision device according to claim 2, wherein,in use, the absorbent material is at least partially positioned betweenthe aerosol generating material and the cover.
 5. The aerosol provisiondevice according to claim 2, wherein the cover is detachable from theaerosol provision device.
 6. The aerosol provision device according toclaim 1, wherein the absorbent material comprises foam, sponge, paper orcellulose acetate.
 7. The aerosol provision device according to claim 1,wherein the absorbent material has an absorption capacity of at least 7grams of water per gram of absorbent material.
 8. The aerosol provisiondevice according to claim 1, wherein the absorbent material is at leastpartially arranged within a section of the chamber.
 9. (canceled) 10.(canceled)
 11. The aerosol provision device according to claim 1,wherein at least a portion of the absorbent material is gas permeable.12. (canceled)
 13. The aerosol provision device according to claim 1,wherein the absorbent material comprises a through-hole for air to passthrough.
 14. The aerosol provision device according to claim 1, furthercomprising an absorbent member which comprises the absorbent materialsupported by a substrate.
 15. (canceled)
 16. The aerosol provisiondevice according to claim 1, further comprising a brush which comprisesthe absorbent material.
 17. The aerosol provision device according toclaim 1, wherein the chamber comprises a barrier to separate the aerosolgenerating material from the absorbent material.
 18. The aerosolprovision device according to claim 1, further comprising a hydrophobicmaterial arranged within the housing to substantially prevent liquidfrom leaking out of the aerosol provision device.
 19. The aerosolprovision device according to claim 1, wherein at least a portion of thechamber is hydrophobic, or comprises a hydrophobic coating, to encouragethe liquid to flow towards the absorbent material.
 20. The aerosolprovision device according to claim 1, wherein at least a portion of theabsorbent material is configured to provide a visual indication toindicate that the absorbent material is ready to be replaced or cleaned.21. (canceled)
 22. (canceled)
 23. An absorbent member for absorbingliquid in an aerosol provision device, the absorbent member comprising:an absorbent material supported by a substrate, wherein the absorbentmaterial is configured to be at least partially received in a chamber ora door of the aerosol provision device adjacent aerosol generatingmaterial. 24-29. (canceled)
 30. An aerosol provision device, comprising:a housing delimiting a first opening at a first end of the housing,through which to receive aerosol generating material, and delimiting asecond opening at a second end of the housing; a chamber positionedbetween the second opening and the first opening, wherein at least partof the chamber is configured to receive aerosol generating material; atleast one heater arranged within the housing, configured to heat theaerosol generating material received within the chamber thereby togenerate an aerosol; and a hydrophobic material arranged within thehousing to substantially prevent liquid from leaking out of the aerosolprovision device; wherein, in use, the aerosol is drawn through thechamber towards the first opening.
 31. The aerosol provision deviceaccording to claim 30, further comprising a cover movable between afirst position in which the second opening is blocked by the cover and asecond position in which the second opening is not blocked by the cover,wherein the hydrophobic material is configured to substantially preventliquid from leaking past the cover when the cover is arranged in thefirst position. 32-39. (canceled)
 40. The aerosol provision deviceaccording to claim 30, further comprising an absorbent material. 41-50.(canceled)